Reading’s Comeback Bid Denied After Arlington Converts Crucial Fourth Down
Under the bright Friday night lights at John Hollingsworth Field, the Reading Rockets staged a valiant comeback but ultimately fell to the Arlington Spy Ponders, 36–28, in a game that showcased grit, big plays, and relentless ground attacks.
Early Arlington Control
Arlington struck first, capitalizing on a key pass interference call to extend their opening drive. Quarterback Joey Schiano punched in a 1-yard sneak, followed by a two-point conversion from Ryan Scull, giving the Spy Ponders an early 8–0 lead. Their offensive line dominated the trenches, paving the way for Scull and fullback Ori Forest to churn out yards.
Reading’s offense sputtered early, but quarterback Will Chute kept his composure. After Arlington extended their lead to 14–0 midway through the second quarter, Chute delivered a spark with a perfectly executed gadget play — a deep strike to Dominic Pate for a long touchdown. Moments later, Chute engineered a two-minute drill capped by a touchdown pass to Ryan Pulpi, trimming the deficit to 20–14 at halftime.
Second-Half Shootout
Arlington opened the third quarter with a clock-chewing drive, capped by Scull’s touchdown and another two-point conversion to make it 28–14. Reading answered with a sharp series featuring Jayden Gomes, who hauled in a short touchdown pass to pull within seven.
But Arlington’s size and execution proved decisive. Schiano connected with tight end Drew Beck for a goal-line score, stretching the lead to 36–21. Reading refused to fold — Chute scrambled for a six-yard touchdown run with 4:47 left, cutting the margin to eight. The Rockets attempted an onside kick and nearly recovered, but Arlington held firm and a final score of 36-28.
What’s Next
Reading now sits at 1–3, hungry for momentum as the season progresses. The Rockets return home on Halloween night for a marquee matchup against Woburn on Senior Night — a game sure to carry extra emotion and intensity.
